MTH 312 - Number Theory
Spring 2007
Dr. J. Bready

Course Description: Number Theory is the study of natural numbers (positive whole numbers). Time will be spent investigating sets of numbers with certain properties, and students will be expected to generate conjectures, and try to mathematically prove or disprove these conjectures. This course will cover divisibility, prime numbers, numerical functions, congruence classes, and other topics as time allows.

Required text: Rosen, Kenneth H., Elementary Number Theory and its applications, Pearson, 5th Edition, 2005.

Additional requirements: TI-83/84 or TI-89

Course requirements, penalties for late submissions, and absences:
Homework/Group work: 15%
Web Search: 10%
Biography Project: 15%
Tests (5): 60%

Some homework problems or small group activities will be collected and graded. Attendance will be taken daily. In accordance with the registrar's rules, four consecutive absences will be reported to the Registrar. Excessive absences can be detrimental to the final grade. Make-ups will only be given for excused absences; please plan accordingly.

Web Search: Students are expected to use the internet to find two websites related to number theory, and write a one-page overview of the sites. More details will be given at a later date.

Project: In this project you will learn about a mathematician (specifically in the field of number theory) and create a "scrapbook." More details will be given at a later date.

Grading Scale:
A 93-100 C+ 75-77 F Below 60
A- 88-92 C 72-74
B+ 85-87 C - 68-71
B 82-84 D+ 65-67
B- 78-82 D 60-64